Valve has officially rolled out SteamOS 3.6.19, bringing a host of enhancements and fixes to Steam Deck users. This latest update includes improvements across several core aspects of the handheld gaming device, ensuring a better user experience.
The SteamOS 3.6.19 update introduces significant improvements and fixes across a wide range of areas, making the Steam Deck more robust and user-friendly. The update brings enhanced hardware compatibility, performance, and system stability through a kernel update and an upgraded Arch Linux base. It also offers multiple fixes, including improved microSD card handling, Wi-Fi connectivity, and better performance in both graphics and display.
SteamOS 3.6.19 Update Key highlights Include:
- General Improvements: Faster OS updates, improved session restart handling, and numerous fixes targeting Wi-Fi, Steam installation corruption, cursor alignment, and sleep issues. It also resolves issues with aftermarket SSDs and certain GPUs.
- Graphics and Performance: A new Mesa 24.1 graphics driver brings better performance and memory handling, while overall cold boot times are improved. The update fixes crashes in specific games and enhances the Steam UI’s responsiveness.
- Display: The update addresses a variety of display issues, improving color balance, refresh rates, and display behavior when switching between modes or external displays.
- Bluetooth: Improved compatibility with devices like Apple AirPods and new profiles for Bluetooth devices, along with faster pairing and reconnection.
- Input and Controller Support: Added support for ROG Ally keys, ASUS ROG Raikiri Pro, and Machenike G5 Pro controllers, as well as improvements in motion sensors and calibration for third-party controllers.
- Desktop Mode: Updated to KDE Plasma 5.27.10, it offers better microSD card management and other enhancements like video previews in the file browser.
- BIOS and Firmware: Various power management and battery life optimizations, particularly for the Steam Deck LCD model, along with added support for HDMI CEC features on the Docking Station.
The update also includes new development and modding tools, such as better handling of /etc file modifications, SSH support, and improvements for developers working with Steam Deck’s modding features.
For a detailed breakdown of all the changes and fixes, check out the full patch notes [here].
